Vision Tester Electronic Image Projection Mirror Optics

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing vision testing equipment is prone to damage and illumination fluctuations, requiring frequent adjustments and operator intervention, which affects the consistency and accuracy of test results.

Innovation Solution

A vision testing device utilizing electronic devices to project computer-generated images to each eye, with a mirror system and adjustable optics to simulate near and far field views, allowing for independent image presentation to each eye and minimizing equipment wear, while a computer system manages test protocols and results.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If slide plates are used to display images, then image quality can be maintained, but the equipment is susceptible to damage and wear requiring frequent switching and alteration

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveimage display reliabilityVSAvoidequipment maintenance complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of repair

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces physical slide plates with electronic displays (LCD, LED, or projection screens) that can digitally replicate any image. This electronic copying eliminates the need for physical slide plates, reducing damage and wear while maintaining image quality consistency.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The patent substitutes the mechanical slide plate system with an electronic display system. Instead of physically handling and switching opaque slides, the system uses electronic controls to display images on a screen, eliminating mechanical wear and damage to physical media.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Illumination intensity

If traditional illumination systems are used, then images can be displayed, but illumination quality fluctuates over time affecting test results

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveimage illumination qualityVSAvoidtest result consistency

Core Design Contradiction:

Illumination intensityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical illumination systems with electronic display technologies (LCD, LED, or projection) that are controlled by a computer. This electronic control system maintains consistent illumination parameters, eliminating fluctuations that occur with mechanical illumination systems over time.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses electronic control to precisely manage illumination parameters (brightness, contrast, color temperature) through software. This allows for stable and repeatable illumination conditions that do not degrade or fluctuate as mechanical systems would over time.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Adaptability or versatility

If sophisticated testing equipment with partitions and multiple components is used, then functional vision can be tested, but operator activity and adjustment requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvevision testing capabilityVSAvoidoperator intervention requirement

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a multi-functional vision testing system where a single electronic display and computer control platform can perform multiple vision tests (acuity, color, contrast, stereopsis) by loading different software protocols, eliminating the need for separate equipment for each test type.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements automated computer control that manages test protocols, image selection, and result recording without requiring operator intervention for manual adjustments. The system self-regulates illumination, displays appropriate images, and captures results automatically.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The solution provides consistent and adjustable image presentation, reducing equipment wear and operator intervention, enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of vision testing across various conditions and tests.

Implementation Method 1

A mirror extends from the first side to the second side and is positioned to reflect the first image and the second image

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectReflection: Reflection

Implementation Method 2

A first viewing lens is in optical communication with the first side and configured to receive the first image reflected from the mirror. A second viewing lens is in optical communication with the second side and configured to receive the second image reflected from the mirror

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectRefraction: Refraction

Data Source

PatentUS9149185B2Functional vision tester

Publication Date: 2015.10.06 VISION ASSESSMENT CORP

AI summary

A vision testing device includes a hood having an interior space defining a first side and a second side. A first electronic device is operable to project a first image to the first side and a second electronic device is operable to project a second image to the second side. The first image and the second image comprise computer-generated images. A mirror extends from the first side to the second side and is positioned to reflect the first image and the second image. A first viewing lens is in optical communication with the first side and is configured to receive the first image reflected from the mirror. A second viewing lens is in optical communication with the second side and is configured to receive the second image reflected from the mirror.